Annual Pap Screening No Longer Recommended
New screening guidelines announced by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend less frequent cervical cancer screening tests based on the latest scientific evidence. The new guidelines state that
- Women should begin obtaining cervical cancer screening (Pap smear or liquid-based cytology) three years after first sexual intercourse or at age 21, whichever comes first.
- Women between ages 21 and 30 should obtain cervical cancer screening once every two years (rather than annually as previously recommended).
- Women age 30 and older who have had three consecutive negative cervical cytology test results may be screened once every three years.
"The tradition of doing a Pap test every year has not been supported by recent scientific evidence," says Alan G. Waxman, MD, at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque and who headed the document developed by ACOG's Committee on Practice Bulletins-Gynecology. "A review of the evidence to date shows that screening at less frequent intervals prevents cervical cancer just as well, has decreased costs, and avoids unnecessary interventions that could be harmful."
ACOG notes that some women will continue to require more frequent screening if they have certain risk factors. As always, patients should consult with their healthcare providers on the best course of action based on their individual circumstances.
The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) is committed to the support of excellence in oncology nursing and quality cancer care through the integration of research and evidence-based practice. Although ONS has not developed an official Position on cervical cancer screening, the ONS Board of Directors is committed to regular review and revision of its Positions to ensure they are consistent with the most recent available research findings and support the highest quality care for patients.